Whether you’re networking in-person or virtually, your goal remains the same – to connect, engage, and be memorable!
How do you find and make those genuine connections? How do you approach someone at a coffee chat, conference, or event?
A brief recap:
- Research the event and attendees in advance, and create your “target list”. A good way to do this is to follow them on social media and learn what they’ve been up to.
- Your audio logo should make you memorable and have a hook. It’s a good idea to create one for each type of event, based on your goals for that event.
- Prepare a brief positioning statement of who you are, what value you bring, and what you aspire to do.
- Have a strong LinkedIn profile that aligns with your positioning statement and aspirations.
If you are attending a virtual event or conference, here are some tips:
- Speak up and stay engaged!
- Don’t be afraid to get the ball rolling – start with an ice breaker – e.g. what’s your favorite vacation spot? What brings you here?
- Introduce yourself with your audio logo and what you’re seeking
- Lead with questions
- Share relevant industry information you’ve learned that other attendees may find valuable.
- Use videoconferencing tools actively, such as the hand raise, Chat, or Reactions. Use hand gestures – e.g. wave or thumbs up – to show your engagement.
- Draft a few informed questions for the speakers to show you’ve done your homework – e.g. ask a good follow up question about a recent social post or press release.
- Ask for referrals to people you should be talking to within the industry or at companies of interest to you.
- Finally, always thank them and follow up with a note
- Consider volunteering at conferences and events – introduce yourself to the organizers and offer to help with organizing or staffing the event. It’s a great way to attend for free, and it can open doors to meeting prominent speakers or key industry influencers.
Think of yourself as a consultant – you want to listen and not do all the talking.
Rather than focusing on what questions to ask next – listening actively can give you cues on what good follow up questions to ask.
Remember, your goal is to build genuine connections and relationships. It’s much easier than you think!
Stay positive and open to possibilities – remember to relax, listen, and relate.
Stay tuned for what’s next in our networking series:
- Part Three: Post-Event – How to Follow Up and Stay Top-of-Mind?
- Part Four: Online Networking – Brand Building and Making Social Media Work For YOU
Related Resources:
Remote Networking as a Person of Color (HBR)
Top 11 Virtual Networking Tips To Boost Your Career (Forbes)
Easy Networking Tips for the Networking Haters (Harvard Business Review)
